Spanish TV show El Chiringuito reported details of the phone call where Lopetegui tried to persuade the Real star to stick around, with the new Real boss planning to build his side around Ronaldo.

It’s claimed the player told Lopetegui he was grateful for his support but still wanted to leave, leaving the Madrid chief to accept Ronaldo will now exit the Bernabeu nine years after his £80m arrival from Manchester United.